SEN. POORE EXPANDS COVERAGE FOR MENOPAUSE AND PERIMENOPAUSE CARE

The following information was released by Delaware Senate Democrats:

Legislation introduced bySen. Nicole PooreandRep. Kamela Smithseeks to expand access for comprehensive menopause and perimenopause care across the state.

Senate Bill 319recognizes menopause as a common health condition, but one that should be taken more seriously by medical providers and insurers alike. SB 319 removes unnecessary barriers by requiring health insurance plans to cover medically necessary diagnostic services and treatment for menopause symptoms.

"This legislation addresses a gap in women's health care that has too often been overlooked," saidSen. Nicole Poore, prime sponsor of the bill. "Menopause and perimenopause can affect every part of a woman's life, from her physical and emotional health to her sleep, work, and overall well-being. SB 319 helps make sure women can access the care and treatment they need without unnecessary insurance barriers, including diagnostic testing, hormone and non-hormone therapies, mental health support, physical therapy, and preventative care. Women deserve to be heard, taken seriously, and supported through every stage of life."

This legislation addresses long-standing gaps in women's health care and ensures insurance coverage is accessible for a broad range of treatments and services including diagnostic testing, hormonal and non-hormonal therapy, behavioral health care services, physical therapy, preventative services, and more.

If passed, Delaware would join Maryland, Pennsylvania, and New Jersey in supporting the treatment, diagnosis, and prevention of menopause and perimenopause symptoms. Aligning this care with neighboring states allows Delaware to remain competitive in regarding the health care services and coverage that are accessible to Delawareans.

Hot flashes, brain fog, mood swings, and a whole lot of silence. We're done with that, saidRep. Kam Smith. "Too many people have been told to just push through menopause and perimenopause without answers, support, or access to care. These experiences impact people differently, but everyone deserves to feel heard, supported, and able to access the care they need. It's time we stop treating menopause like an uncomfortable conversation and start treating it like the healthcare issue it is by ensuring essential treatments are covered like any other medically necessary care."

SB 319 was released from the Senate Health and Social Services Committee on Wednesday and awaits a vote before the Senate.